The UK government’s recent decision to scrap a proposed ban on teaching children under 9 about sexual topics has sparked significant debate. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson announced that the new guidelines would only “recommend” postponing education on topics such as pornography and sexual assault until Year 5.
The shift in policy has generated a mix of support and criticism, with some hailing it as a more flexible approach while others warn it could leave children vulnerable to inappropriate content.
Scrapping the Age Limit: Key Changes in the Department for Education’s Guidance
The proposed changes to the sex education curriculum mark a major departure from earlier plans set forth by the Conservative government. Previously, the government sought to impose a strict age limit, barring discussions of sensitive topics like pornography and sexual assault until after Year 5.
However, the new guidelines from the Department for Education (DfE) remove this mandate, instead recommending that these subjects be introduced no earlier than the final two years of primary school.
This shift leaves the decision in the hands of individual schools, allowing them to determine when, or whether, certain lessons are appropriate.
The guidelines state that schools should focus on teaching children “how to identify and learn from positive role models” and ensure that lessons are in alignment with local parental expectations.
According to the DfE, this approach ensures a more tailored education experience, allowing for a better understanding of diverse parental perspectives and cultural contexts across the country.
While this may be seen as a step towards greater flexibility, critics, including Shadow Education Secretary Laura Trott, argue that the lack of a clear mandate weakens protections for children. Trott expressed concern that this change could expose children to inappropriate content at too early an age, particularly in the absence of proper safeguards.
Parental Involvement and the Wider Debate on Safeguarding
One of the key aspects of the new guidance is the emphasis on engaging with parents. Schools are encouraged to actively consult with parents and ensure they are fully informed about the content of the Relationships, Sex and Health Education (RSHE) curriculum.
This includes giving parents the right to review all curriculum materials, a move that has been welcomed by Parentkind, a charity advocating for parental rights in education.
According to Frank Young from Parentkind, it is vital that schools maintain an open dialogue with parents to ensure that topics discussed are age-appropriate and aligned with family values.
He emphasized that parents should be in the “driving seat” when it comes to determining what their children are taught, particularly when it comes to sensitive subjects such as sexual health.
